Surprise Views

Surprise! These three hikes in North San Diego County are not only less traveled, they're filled with outdoor gems like Torrey pines, sandstone formations, wildlife, and vantage points with huge views.

Week: 01.12.2022
Regions: Southern CA

Daley Inspiration

Hike Boulder Loop at Daley Ranch in North San Diego County

Hiker on a trail at Daley Ranch at North San Diego County
Hiker on a trail going past boulders at Daley Ranch in Escondido North San Diego County
Hiker at bench site overlooking mountains at Escondido Ranch in North San Diego County
Phenomenal views? Check. Impressive geology? Check again. Secret ponds? Yep! Sprinkle in a historic home and you’ve got a 5-mile highlight hike at Daley Ranch in Escondido.
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Mix Things Up in Oxnard

Winter Adventures in Oxnard

hiker on Channel Islands
fox on Channel Islands
women hiking on Channel Islands
By land, by sea, by taco trail—Oxnard in Ventura County hits its stride in winter. The golden beaches are uncrowded, and surfers find their bliss in the curling waves.
Oxnard Vacation Guide

Encinitas Ranch

Hike at Encinitas Ranch for Mountain and Sea Views in San Diego County

A hiker surveys the sandstone formation and distant mountain views at Encinitas Ranch in North San Diego County
A woman walks by a cactus covered trailside at Encinitas Ranch in North San Diego County
Dog statue at vista point in Encinitas Ranch San Diego County
Beautiful Torrey pines, striking sandstone bluffs, mountain and ocean vistas ... find these trademark San Diego features on an unassuming suburban hike at Encinitas Ranch in North San Diego County.
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Manchester Hidden Gem

Hike a hidden gem at Manchester Preserve in San Diego County

Hiker staring out at mountainous views in Manchester Preserve North San Diego County
A hiker walks past the sign for Manchester Preserve in North San Diego County
A hiker walks up to a heart shaped rock formation at Manchester Preserve in North San Diego County
A woman sits at a bench overlooking vast green scenery at Manchester Preserve in San Diego County
Hike a hidden gem in San Diego County: Manchester Preserve is a 123-acre canyon with a winding trail network best explored on a 2.25-mile perimeter loop.
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Trending Stories NorCal

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  1. Redwoods Star Power

    Go on a 5-mile (round-trip) redwoods hike that starts from Chabot’s Moon Gate entrance and through Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, then visit the Chabot Space and Science Center for a rooftop telescope star viewing or a space

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  2. Bike to Aardvark Beach

    Two wheels, a fresh sea breeze, birds, and a beach stop: now that's a California bike ride. Pack a beach blanket and set out on this 16-mile out-and-back pedal along the San Francisco Bay to Aardvark Beach.

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  3. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

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  4. Woman on Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes at Death Valley National Park

    Starry Night & Dark Sky Adventures

    You don’t have to stay out all that late to experience eminent stargazing at Death Valley National Park. The park's been given the highest ranking of darkness by the International Dark Sky Association. From ranger-led to self-guided adventures, here are a few amazing ways to witness the mesmerizing night sky at Death Valley.

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  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

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  2. Sponsored

    No Limits Family Trip: Reno Tahoe

    What if your next family getaway didn’t come with a set agenda—just the freedom to go where the day takes you? Find yourselves in Reno Tahoe, a land of no limits and plenty of outdoor bounty.

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  3. Can We Get a Whoop Whoop!

    City, mountain, and ocean views all in one hike? Whoop whoop! It’s no surprise the the Kenter Fire Road and Whoop-de-Doos Trail (a combo of fire road and singletrack) is a favorite among local mountain bikers and hikers alike.

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  4. Eat, Explore, Repeat: Point Reyes Station

    It’s small and laid-back, but Point Reyes Station is a standout gateway to Point Reyes National Seashore. Fresh food, cool culture, and an unfussy vibe are part of the draw.

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